The Ekiti State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is on the brink of internal conflict as loyalists of former Governor Ayodele Fayose and members of the party’s Caretaker Committee clash over the forthcoming state congresses.
The Caretaker Committee, chaired by Chief Dare Adeleke, has announced that loyalists of Fayose who hold appointments in the administration of APC Governor Biodun Oyebanji will be disqualified from participating in the congresses. Adeleke emphasized that the PDP is focused on unity and not factions or groups, stating that anyone linked to the APC government would be barred from the process.
The PDP National Working Committee (NWC) has scheduled January 18, 2025, for ward congresses, February 1 for local government congresses, and February 18 for the state congress. Aspirants who collected forms for various positions have been directed to submit them by Monday to finalize preparations for the congresses.
When asked about Fayose loyalists, Adeleke clarified, “This is a PDP affair, not about factions or groups. Anyone who has legally collected forms will participate, but those with appointments from the APC government will be screened out. Even if they submit forms, they will be disqualified during the screening process.”
On the approach to the congresses, Adeleke noted that most wards have agreed to adopt consensus candidates, and he expressed hope that this approach would extend to the local government and state levels. He dismissed the idea of zoning for the state congress, citing a prior legal ruling that nullified zoning arrangements.
Despite the caretaker committee’s position, Fayose loyalists remain defiant. Omolade Bolarinwa, a member of Fayose’s camp, asserted that they would participate and emerge victorious in the congresses. He argued that the caretaker committee’s role is limited to coordinating members and that the actual congresses fall under the jurisdiction of the PDP national body.
“Fayose has never lost any congress since joining the PDP. He is a master strategist, and this one won’t be different,” Bolarinwa declared.
With both factions digging in their heels, the upcoming congresses are shaping up to be a critical test for the unity and future direction of the PDP in Ekiti State.
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